Regarding the increasing air pollution in Delhi, BJP leader and former Union Minister Maneka Gandhi has given a statement on the use of firecrackers which has become a topic of discussion. He said that people who use firecrackers are traitors and he has no other words for this. Along with this, Maneka Gandhi said that when firecrackers are burnt on occasions like Diwali, Dussehra, weddings, New Year and cricket matches, it has a direct impact on people’s health and people start having difficulty even breathing.

Whereas former Union Minister Maneka Gandhi said that stubble burning, number of vehicles and industrial reasons are often held responsible for pollution in the country, but this is not the whole truth. According to Maneka Gandhi, the air of Delhi remains almost clean till three days before Diwali, but from Diwali till New Year, the situation becomes so bad that people are not able to even breathe freely. He raised the question that if firecrackers worth about Rs 800 crore are burnt in Delhi only on the day of Diwali, then it is not difficult to understand what effect it will have on the environment and health.

There is no such thing as green crackers in the world – Maneka Gandhi

Along with this, Maneka Gandhi also raised questions on the claim of green firecrackers. He said that nothing called green crackers exists in the world and it is just a way to confuse people. He said that burning any kind of firecrackers only increases pollution, no matter under what name they are sold.

People are also being affected mentally due to pollution

He also said that due to pollution, people are also being affected mentally and are reaching a state of depression. Unless it rains, it is difficult to get relief from the poisonous air. Maneka Gandhi sarcastically said that it is a strange irony that the people who burn the most firecrackers are the ones who later blame the government and the system the most.

GRAP-4 restrictions have been removed in Delhi before the New Year. This decision has been taken after improvement in pollution levels. Group 3 restrictions will remain in force. The Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) took this decision under the revised Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) issued on 21 November 2025 in compliance with the directions of the Supreme Court. Currently, as per the orders of 14 October, 19 October and 13 December 2025, Stage-1, 2, 3 and 4 were in force.

The rule of ‘No PUC, No Fuel’ will continue

Delhi government had already made it clear that even after the removal of Group 4, the rule of ‘No PUC, No Fuel’ will continue.

AQI improved due to strong winds

The sub-committee constituted on GRAP reviewed the air quality of the region and the forecasts of IMD/IITM in its meeting held today (24 December). The committee found that due to strong winds and favorable weather, the air quality of Delhi has improved significantly. On December 24, 2025, AQI was recorded at 271, which falls in the ‘Poor’ category. However, there is a possibility of AQI increasing in the coming days due to reduction in wind speed.

Keeping these circumstances in mind, the sub-committee decided to cancel the order dated 13 December 2025, under which Stage-IV (Severe+; AQI > 450) was implemented.

However, the Commission clarified that all measures under Stage-1, 2 and 3 will remain strictly implemented and monitored across the NCR as per the revised GRAP dated November 21, 2025, so that the air quality does not fall back into the ‘Severe+’ category. All concerned agencies have been instructed to further intensify the measures under Stage-2 and 3.

Appeal to people to follow Grape-3

Also, in view of the winter weather, an appeal has been made to the citizens to strictly follow the Citizen’s Charter issued under GRAP Stage-1, 2 and 3.

There has been a demand to reclassify air purifiers as medical devices and reduce GST from 18% to 5%. While hearing the petition related to this, Delhi High Court has reprimanded the Central Government. Delhi HC said that if the authorities cannot provide clean air to the citizens to breathe, then at least they can reduce the GST on air purifiers.

The Central Government’s lawyer told in the High Court that this is under process and will be done within the time limit. Delhi HC asked what is the meaning of the time limit? When thousands of people are dying, every citizen needs clean air and you have not been able to provide it. The case will be heard again at 2:30 pm in Delhi High Court.

Government should soon tell what it is proposing – Delhi High Court

Expressing displeasure, Delhi High Court said, what is the right time? This is the least you can do when thousands of people die. Every citizen of this city needs clean air and you have not been able to provide that.. At least do something so that people can buy air purifiers. Why are 15 days required to respond to this? Can the government reply in the vacation bench also?

The High Court asked that the government should immediately tell what proposal it is making? Why can’t exemption be given as a temporary measure under the National Security Act during this air emergency? Why doesn’t the government call the GST Council meeting? Let us know when the GST Council is going to meet. Is this proposal going before the GST Council? The Central Government’s counsel said that this issue had come before the Parliamentary Committee which had also given instructions.

‘Whenever someone sits in despair, Vinod Kumar Shukla will be remembered as the person who extended his hand’, Kumar Vishwas became emotional

Till now people used to think that pollution only affects and makes our lungs, breath and heart sick, but according to a research, pollution is also affecting the fertility of men and women. The most frightening thing is that pollution is also having a serious impact on the pregnancy of women, due to which the cases of abortion in hospitals are increasing rapidly. Due to the polluted air of Delhi NCR and AQI reaching critical levels, miscarriage or abortion among women is increasing rapidly, which is a matter of great concern.

What came out in China’s report?

According to a report published in China, severe level of pollution is no less than a threat to women. It was told in the report that excessive exposure to pollution or living in a polluted place is having a harmful effect on both the quantity and quality of eggs in the ovaries of women, which also reduces the quantity of eggs.

Impact of pollution on women in Delhi NCR

Delhi NCR is one of the places most affected by pollution in India, where according to many doctors, the number of pregnant women in hospitals is increasing. Among these, pregnant women are coming with problems like cold, fever and cough, due to which many IVF surgeries are being canceled because problems like cold and cough are increasing in women.

Effect of pollution on AMH hormone

According to research, when a woman is exposed to pollution for a long time, the level of anti-Müllerian hormone (AMH) in that woman reduces significantly. Anti-Müllerian hormone (AMH) is a hormone that determines how many eggs are left in a woman’s ovaries. If the level of this hormone decreases in a woman, it means that there are very few eggs left in the ovary, which directly affects fertility. Why are PM 2.5 and NO2 more dangerous? The biggest reason for the decrease of this hormone is the severe amount of pollution. When the level of pollution in the environment becomes PM 2.5, PM 10 and PM 1 and the amount of nitrogen dioxide (NO2) is high, the level of anti-Müllerian hormone in the body automatically reduces.

Hormonal imbalance and effect on menstruation

Women are most at risk of hormonal imbalance in the body due to their living or coming in contact with places with high air pollution, which can lead to disturbances in the menstrual cycle. If there are too many pollutants like PM 2.5 and nitrogen dioxide (NO2) in the air, they have a harmful effect on progesterone and estrogen levels, which seriously impacts fertility.

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The continuous bad air in Delhi has increased the concern of the people as well as the government. Meanwhile, there is a ban on construction work in entire Delhi. On one hand, this decision of the government is helping in controlling pollution, but on the other hand, daily wage laborers are facing problems. They are not getting employment due to work closure.

In view of this, Rekha Gupta government of Delhi has taken a big decision. The government has announced to send Rs 10,000 each to the accounts of registered labourers. This has been confirmed by Minister Kapil Mishra.

Online registration started for laborers

Minister Kapil Mishra has said that Rs 10,000 will be given to registered laborers working at every construction site in Delhi. This decision has been taken because construction work is closed in Delhi. In such a situation, this decision has been taken so that their livelihood is not affected.

After the government’s announcement, the online registration process was opened. Laborers working at construction sites can register themselves.

Number of laborers in Delhi is 10 thousand

Minister Kapil Mishra has informed that till now the number of verified laborers in Delhi is 10 thousand, to whom this assistance amount will be given. This compensation is being given for 16 days because there was a ban on construction work for 16 days under Grape-3.

‘An attempt to fix 30 years of pollution in 9 months’

Minister Kapil Mishra says that the Rekha Gupta government is trying to correct the pollution of the last 30 years in 9 months. He said, “We have made a mistake that 30 years of pollution did not reduce in a few months. Earlier Chief Ministers used to run away after seeing pollution, this is our mistake. This time the Chief Minister is a woman, she lives on the streets. People have expectations from this government and we will live up to their expectations.”

Air pollution in Delhi and NCR has once again reached dangerous levels. The situation has worsened so much that not only has concern increased within the country but its impact has started becoming visible even abroad. Due to poor air quality, cities like UK, Canada and Singapore have issued travel advisories for their citizens. Meanwhile, the biggest question before the common people is which mask will be most effective in avoiding increasing pollution. In such a situation, let us tell you today which mask will be suitable in case of increasing air pollution.

Delhi’s air becomes severe, condition continues to worsen

On Monday, the air quality index in many areas of Delhi was recorded in the very poor category. AQI reached 493 in Anand Vihar and 498 in Jahangirpuri, which falls in the severe category. According to the Central Pollution Control Board, the air remained at critical level at 38 stations in the capital. Visibility has also reduced due to thick layer of smog and fog. In view of the serious situation of pollution, the Air Quality Management Commission has implemented Stage-4 of the Graded Response Action Plan.

What things should be kept in mind while buying a mask?

The most important thing while choosing a mask to protect from pollution is its filtration capacity. According to experts, to avoid this pollution, the mask should be such that it can filter very fine particles like PM 2.5. Along with this, proper fitting on the face is also important. If air is going in from the edge of the mask then it is not considered effective. Whereas a comfortable mask which can be worn for a long time is better in terms of protection.

Why are clothes and surgical masks not effective?

Cloth masks may look good, but they are not capable of stopping the microscopic particles present in urban pollution. Whereas surgical masks provide some protection, but due to loose fitting, they are not able to completely protect against PM 2.5 particles. Therefore, relying on cloth and surgical masks can be dangerous during severe pollution.

Why N95, KN95 and FFP2 are the right options?

According to experts, respirators like N95, KN95 and FFP2 are considered the most reliable for protection from pollution. When worn properly, these masks are capable of blocking up to 95 percent of fine particles. At the same time, these masks prove to be more effective for those traveling on busy roads and using public transport. Apart from this, high grade masks like N99 can provide more relief for people suffering from asthma, allergies or respiratory problems. These masks filter even very small particles. Whereas for office goers, reusable and N95 masks with replaceable filters are considered good which can be used for a long time.

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Due to pollution in Noida, Uttar Pradesh, orders have been given to keep all schools from nursery to 5th class closed. Whereas all schools from class 6 to 12 will be operated on hybrid mode. This order was implemented with immediate effect on all schools, strict action will be taken against schools violating the rules.

The air in Noida has become poisonous. in Greater Noida AQI 500 Has reached beyond. In view of the increasing pollution, this decision has been taken by the administration. Keeping in mind the safety of children, this order has been issued immediately.

District School Inspector gave orders

In the order issued from the office of the District School Inspector of Gautam Buddha Nagar, it has been said that keeping in mind the guidelines of GRP, the Basic Education Council run in the district by the District Magistrate and CBSE, ICSE, In view of the adverse impact on the health of students studying in schools and coaching centers affiliated with Sanskat Shiksha Parishad and Madrasa Board, classes will be run with conditions from Sunday (December 14) till further orders.

It was said in the order that classes from class 6th to 9th and 11th should be run in hybrid mode. Instructions have been given to operate carefully in online and physical mode also. In this, the principals of all the schools of the district have been directed in this regard. It has also been asked to ensure strict compliance with the order.

CAQM implemented GRAP-4

On Saturday (December 13), the Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) in Noida-NCR imposed the strictest measure GRAP-4 under its air pollution control plan, ‘Phase-based Response Action Plan’ (GRAP), including a ban on all construction and demolition activities, after a sharp rise in pollution levels amid adverse weather conditions. The sub-committee on GRAP on Saturday decided to implement the third phase of GRAP with immediate effect in view of the deteriorating air quality situation in the entire NCR.

How was the weather on Sunday?

Meanwhile, on Sunday (December 14), the minimum temperature was 8.2 degrees Celsius, 0.4 degrees below this season’s average and the maximum temperature was recorded at 24 degrees Celsius. According to the India Meteorological Department, the relative humidity at 5.30 pm was 87 percent. The Meteorological Department has forecast moderate fog for Monday, in which the maximum temperature is expected to be around 23 degrees Celsius and the minimum temperature will be around 8 degrees Celsius.

In view of the serious problem of pollution in Delhi, an important decision has been taken regarding outdoor physical sports activities. The Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) has directed the state governments of Delhi and NCR to immediately stop all outdoor physical sports activities. Also warned that continuing such events amidst poor air quality can pose a serious threat to the health of children.

CAQM has written a letter to the Chief Secretaries of Delhi, Haryana, Rajasthan and Uttar Pradesh on Saturday (December 13), saying that it is concerned that despite the instructions given earlier as per the Supreme Court order of November 19, some schools and institutions of Delhi-NCR are still conducting outdoor sports activities.

Instructions to create awareness about health risks

“Continuing outdoor physical activities during poor air quality is against the spirit and intent of the Supreme Court’s observations and the Commission’s directions,” CAQM said. In the letter, the commission asked to postpone the physical sports competitions to be held in November and December. It directed the NCR state governments and the Delhi government to ensure strict and immediate compliance of the earlier instructions, issue necessary instructions to all schools, educational institutions, sports bodies and local authorities to close outdoor physical sports activities and sensitize schools and parents about the health risks involved.

Instructions to closely monitor and take appropriate action

CAQM also asked the authorities to closely monitor compliance at the field level and take appropriate action in case of any violations. On Saturday, the panel took the strictest action under its air pollution control plan, GRAP, which includes banning all construction and demolition activities in Delhi-NCR following a sharp rise in pollution levels amid extreme weather conditions.

What are the restrictions under GRAP Stage IV?

Under Stage IV of GRAP, entry of trucks in Delhi has been stopped, except those carrying essential goods or providing essential services. However, movement of CNG, LNG, electric and BS-VI diesel trucks has been allowed. There is a ban on plying of registered diesel heavy goods vehicles (BS-IV and below) in Delhi, with exemption again only for essential services.

Ban on construction and demolition activities also

All construction and demolition activities are banned, including public projects like highways, roads, flyovers, power transmission lines, pipelines and telecom, which are usually allowed in the lower stages. Schools in Delhi and the worst-affected NCR districts have been asked to run classes not only for primary students but also for higher classes (VI to IX and XI) in hybrid mode (online and physical), with students given the option to attend online classes wherever possible.

Under Stage IV, state governments have been asked to consider taking additional emergency measures such as closing colleges and educational institutions, shutting down non-essential commercial activities and even imposing odd-even rules for vehicles if the pollution situation worsens.

Restrictions under GRAP apply in Delhi in winter

It is noteworthy that during winter, restrictions are imposed in the Delhi-NCR region under GRAP, which divides the air quality into four stages – Stage I (poor, AQI 201-300), Stage II (very poor, AQI 301-400), Stage III (severe, AQI 401-450), and Stage IV (very severe, AQI above 450). In winter, due to bad weather conditions, smoke from vehicles, stubble burning, firecrackers and other local sources of pollution, the air quality in Delhi-NCR reaches dangerous levels.

On Thursday (11 December) morning in Delhi-NCR, people started the day with severe cold. Light fog, smog and cold winds have brought a big change in the weather of the capital. There has been a slight decline in pollution due to increase in wind speed, but visibility still remains low in many areas. IMD has predicted clear sky and drop in minimum temperature.

light fog and cold wind

There was light fog in Delhi-NCR on Thursday (11 December) morning. The temperature is continuously going down and people shiver from the intense cold of the morning. According to the Meteorological Department, today the maximum temperature can be between 23-25°C and the minimum temperature can be between 7-9°C.

The wind is blowing from the north-west direction at a speed of 5-10 km/hour, due to which the weather is feeling colder. There was light fog in the morning in Delhi’s North, South, West, Central, East and Shahdara. Whereas in Noida, Ghaziabad, Gurugram and Faridabad, visibility was slightly reduced due to thin layer of fog.

Slight reduction in pollution, but AQI still ‘bad’

There has been some improvement in pollution today due to increase in wind speed, but the air quality has still not come out of the ‘bad’ category. According to CPCB data at 6 am, the average AQI of Delhi was recorded just above 300.

AQI was 338 in Jahangirpuri, while 317 was recorded in Vivek Vihar and 320 in Wazirpur. On the other hand, the air level of Anand Vihar remained around 300. 305 was recorded in Chandni Chowk, 308 in RK Puram and 302 in Punjabi Bagh.

IIT Delhi area remained in better condition, where AQI was recorded around 210. There was dense fog and smog in the morning in areas like India Gate, Dutta Path, ITO and Anand Vihar, due to which visibility was very low and vehicles had to move at very slow speed.

The temperature will drop further in the coming days

According to the Meteorological Department, both cold and fog may increase in Delhi-NCR in the next 3 to 5 days. On December 12, the sky is likely to be partly cloudy and there is a possibility of light fog in the morning.

On 13 and 14 December, due to the effect of western disturbance, clouds may appear and moderate fog can be seen in the morning. The weather will be clear again on 15th and 16th December, but light to moderate fog may continue in the morning.

IMD says that a further drop of 2 to 3 degrees in the minimum temperature is possible in the next 48 hours. After this, there may be a slight increase in temperature, but the effect of cold will remain.

The country’s capital Delhi and its adjoining areas remained covered in a blanket of poisonous smog on Monday (December 8) and the air quality was recorded in the ‘very poor’ category. According to the Central Pollution Control Board, the 24-hour average AQI was 308, which is a serious warning for health. People’s problems have increased due to continuous falling air level in many areas of Delhi. People are forced to breathe this poisonous air.

‘Very bad’ air at 29 centers in the capital

According to Sameer App, till Sunday (December 7) evening, the air quality was recorded as ‘very poor’ in 29 monitoring centers of Delhi. Bawana area had the worst situation with AQI 336. At 10 am the AQI was 302 and 26 stations recorded ‘very poor’ levels. According to the board’s standards, 301-400 AQI is in the ‘very poor’ category. Delhi’s decision support system reported that transportation accounted for 16.5 percent of pollution, while industrial sources contributed 8.1 percent, residential four percent and construction activities 2.3 percent.

Burden increased from NCR districts too, air remained bad throughout the week

Neighboring districts of NCR contributed significantly to pollution. According to PTI, Jhajjar’s share was 13.9 percent, Sonipat’s 6 percent, Rohtak’s 5.2 percent and Jind’s 2.5 percent. This week, continuous fluctuations were recorded in AQI. AQI was recorded at 279 on Sunday, 304 on Monday, 372 on Tuesday, 342 on Wednesday, 304 on Thursday and 327 on Friday. The air remained in the ‘very poor’ category every day, causing the layer of smog and dust to become increasingly dense.

Slight change in temperature, effect of western disturbance

According to IMD, on Sunday the maximum temperature of Delhi was recorded at 24.7 degrees Celsius and the minimum was 8 degrees Celsius, both of which were below normal. The humidity in the morning was 92 percent and in the evening it was 71 percent. The Meteorological Department has predicted the minimum temperature for December 8 to be 10 degrees Celsius and the maximum to be 25 degrees Celsius. Due to the effect of western disturbance, the minimum temperature has increased by about two and a half degrees in the last three days, but the combined effect of cold and pollution seems to be making the air of the capital more heavy.